Chapter 5

****Ivy****

Life was great. I felt like I was floating on cloud nine, living in a dream that was slowly becoming my reality. Today was just the beginning. Working at such a great company and spending time around my boss made my days feel worthwhile again.

I was thrilled—filled with excitement and hope. But deep down, I couldn’t ignore the guilt bubbling beneath the surface. Scarlett didn’t deserve this, not my thoughts, not this tiny crush I was harboring. She was a kind person, and I knew better. At least I could focus on my amazing job and be grateful for how life was turning around.

"Ivy, are you in there?" Camila’s voice broke through my thoughts, her shout pulling me back to reality.

"Yeah!" I called, walking toward the door. As I opened it, her sharp eyes scanned me, her hands folded across her chest.

"Girl, where have you been?" she said, her tone teasing, but her expression laced with curiosity.

A grin spread across her face. "I haven’t seen your ass in ages. Did you sleep at the company or what?"

"Of course not," I replied, laughing as I waved her off.

"Training ran late yesterday, and I didn’t get home until 10:30," I explained.

"You were asleep by the time I got back," I added, watching as she scoffed dramatically.

"Ohhh, so you were really getting the whole introduction, huh?" she said with a smirk, her tone dripping with playful suspicion.

"Seems like you made quite the impression on the boss," she added, raising a knowing eyebrow.

"Mr. Cross is super nice," I said, a small smile playing on my lips.

"He really cares about what he does," I added, my voice soft with admiration.

Camila nodded knowingly. "And he’s really easy to get along with," she chimed in.

"Yes, he is," I agreed, feeling a warmth spread through me.

"Max has known him for years," Camila said, leaning against the doorframe, "and he’s always telling me what a good man Mr. Cross is."

Her words made my admiration for him grow even more. It felt comforting to know that someone like him existed—dedicated, hardworking, and kind.

"But..." Camila’s tone shifted as she raised an eyebrow, "I wouldn’t get too close."

I blinked, caught off guard. "Why not?"

"I’ve heard his wife is a little... bonkers," she said with a playful smirk. "And she’s also the CFO of Legacy Enterprises."

"Well..." I said, trying to find the right words, "I think she’s a sweetheart. Totally supportive of my role as her husband’s secretary."

Camila let out a soft laugh. "Seems like you’ve got the approval of the entire Cross family," she teased, giggling lightly.

I laughed along with her. "I’m so happy you’re enjoying this job, Ivy," she said, placing her hands on my shoulders with a genuine smile.

"And I wish you so much success."

"Thank you so much, babe," I replied, feeling grateful for her encouragement.

"I absolutely love this job. I wake up every day eager to go to work," I confessed, a spark of excitement lighting up my eyes. "I really hope to spend the rest of my days at Legacy Enterprises."

"Me too," Camila said, her tone softening. "I love my job, but honestly... I really need to settle down, you feel me?"

I met her gaze and smiled, understanding what she meant. "Of course, girl," I replied.

Camila’s phone rang, and she quickly picked it up, stepping out of my room with a grin. It was probably her boyfriend calling again.

Left alone, I sighed, peeling off my clothes as I made my way to the bathroom. Turning on the shower, I let the cold water cascade over me, the chill waking me up and refreshing my senses.

It was Saturday—my free day from work—and I had no intention of doing anything remotely stressful. Today was for me. A day to relax, lounge around, and binge-watch N*****x. Camila and I would have the whole day to ourselves, and I was looking forward to doing girly things together—laughing, gossiping, and simply enjoying each other's company.

I didn’t stay longer in the shower for too long, letting the cool water wash away the week’s exhaustion. Wrapping a towel securely around my body, I stepped out of the bathroom, feeling fresh and ready for a laid-back day ahead.

I went to my wardrobe and pulled out a pair of jeans and a crop top. Since I was staying home, something casual would be perfect.

Removing the towel from my waist, I grabbed the jeans and slid into them. I was just about to put on the crop top when my phone started ringing.

The screen showed an unknown number, and I scoffed. Probably the loan I haven’t paid back yet. I rolled my eyes, deciding to ignore it. I’ll assure them after payday, I’ll clear all my debts. Besides, I had a personal rule about not answering unknown numbers—it was better that way.

I picked up the crop top and slipped it on. But before I could finish adjusting it, the phone rang again. Same number.

With a sigh of frustration, I grabbed my phone and, this time, answered the call.

The person on the other end of the line was silent at first. I frowned, holding the phone closer. "Hello? Please, who’s this?" I asked, my voice cautious but polite, waiting for a reply.

"It’s me... Scarlett," came the familiar voice.

I froze for a moment, my mind racing. Scarlett? My boss’s wife was calling me? Why?

"Oh my God, Scarlett! How are you doing?" I asked, trying to mask my surprise with enthusiasm.

There was a pause before she spoke again, her tone quieter this time. "Please, Ivy, I need a favor."